Happy New Year!

Pre-Marital Guidance and Counseling at Thiruvananthapuram

The state committee of Vanitha Vibhagam, Kerala Brahmana Sabha conducted a one-day orientation in pre-marital guidance and counseling for the office bearers of all District Vanitha Vibhagam and Yuvajana Vibhagam on 14 November 2010 at the Thaliyal B. S. Mandiram at Thiruvananthapuram. Representatives from five districts and people from the hosting district participated in this programme. Dr. Amar S. Fettle and Dr. Koshi Philip handled the sessions.

Dr. Amar S. Fettle is a pediatrician at the General Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram who is also the Nodal Officer for H1N1, Govt. of Kerala. He led the morning session on ‘Sex and Sexuality in marriage’. He stressed the importance of guiding children through various phases of life with openness. According to him, there is nothing to be ashamed of in seeking pre-marital guidance since it is only a coaching for marriage. Dr Fettle’s session covered topics like hygiene, puberty, healthy habits, gender differences and reproductive health.

The afternoon session was more on pre-marital guidance and counseling. Dr. Koshi Philip from Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram opined that the counseling should start quite early in life, which he divided it into 3 stages. Stage 1: During the school – for girls aged 13 and above and for boys, 15 and above. Stage 2: Counseling before marriage which covers topics like personality development, tips for choosing the right partner, maturity for a family life (physical, mental and emotional) and the importance of family budget. Stage 3: Post-marital counseling: to be done by a professional or a well-wisher, occasionally for checking whether things are well and to iron out differences, if any, before they get out of control. His suggestion that the couple should be made to sign a 10-point agreement at the time of marriage was at once amusing and thought-provoking. Both Dr Fettle and Dr Philip reiterated the importance of including the parents also in such programmes.

The State Vanitha Vibhagam also honoured three women achievers, Parassala B. Ponnammal, N. J. Nandini and Udyalakshmi on the day. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan, State President, Vanitha Vibhagam. Parassala B. Ponnammal and N. J. Nandini were honoured for their achievements in the field of music and Udayalakshmi who is also the Organizing Secretary of the District Vanitha Vibhag, Thiruvananthapuram, for elected as Corporation Councillor from the Fort Ward. Krishnamoorthy, Regional Officer of Indian Council for Cultural Relations felicitated the dignitaries on the occasion. Sreemathy Ramaswamy, State Secretary fof Vanitha Vibhagam introduced the guests and Meena Sankaranarayanan, State Treasurer proposed the vote of thanks.

Facilities for Sabarimala pilgrims at Kottayam

The Sabarimala pilgrims are offered grand facilities at Brahmana Samooha Madom at Kottayam, as the city is having a strategic importance for the pilgrims. Rooms, Dormitories (a/c & non-a/c), food, toilets, travel arrangements etc. are offered here irrespective of religion, caste at the Samooha Madom located at Srinivasa Iyer Road. It is to be noted that the services offered here are purely voluntary and without any profit motive.  Those who wish to utilize the facilities may contact any one of the following in the cell phone numbers given in brackets. Ramanathan/Ramji (0 94473 62569), S. Sankar/Devan (0 93495 27765),  Umamaheswaran/ Mahesh (0 93878 84646, 0 93880 19898), Ajay Sankar (0 93884 44458), Venkidesh K. (0 98954 36680, 097463 22922). Addres: Brahmana Samooha Madom, Srinivasa Iyer Road, beside Thirunakkara Temple, Kottayam – 686 001. Phone: 0481 – 2566 926

V. Ramalingam and P. S. Raman conferred Honorary Doctorate

V. Ramalingam (State President) and P. S. Raman (State Vice President) of Kerala Brahmana Sabha were conferred Doctorate (Honorary) degree at Colombo, Sri Lanka by the Open International University for Complimentary Medicines, during the 48th World Congress of Integrated Medicines.

V. Ramalingam and P. S. Raman were bestowed with this international honour on Sunday, 14th November 2010 at Colombo for the outstanding service delivered by them in Philanthropic, Social and Spiritual segments. Both, with their better halves were at Colombo for the Convocation and returned to Kerala as Dr. V. Ramalingam and Dr. P. S. Raman. Chairman and Chancellor of Open International University for Complimentary Medicines, Prof. Dr. Gitanjan Mendis conferred the Doctorate. The ceremony took place at Taj Samudra Hotel, Colombo. Inaugural Session on Friday, 12th November was blessed by P. Dayaratne and C. B. Rathnayake, Central Ministers of Government of Sri Lanka. Around 1100 members from all over the World attended the Congress. Dr. V. Ramalingam and Dr. P. S. Raman expressed their sincere thanks to Dr.T. K. Raman, Chairman, TILT, Kochi for the initiative and guidance, who is also the Promoter & Guide for the Doctorate Candidates of the University.

CNN Hero of the Year - Vote for Narayanan Krishnan

Narayanan Krishnan, all of 29 years old now, does what he was professionally trained to do as a chef. Feed people. Only Krishnan does not do this in the swanky confines of a 5-star hotel. Every day, he wakes up at 4.00 a. m., cooks a simple hot meal and then, along with his team, loads it in a van and travels about 200 k. m. feeding the homeless in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

Krishnan feeds, often with his hands, almost 400 destitute people every day. And for those who need it, he provides a free haircut too.

According to CNN, eight years ago, this award-winning chef with a five-star hotel chain was all set to go to Switzerland for a high-profile posting. On a visit to a Madurai temple, he came across a homeless, old man eating his own human waste. That stark sight changed Krishnan's life.

Much to the dismay of his parents, CNN says, Krishnan abandoned his career plans and decided to spend his life and his professional training in looking after those who could not care for themselves. He has provided more than 1.2 million hot meals through his nonprofit organization Akshaya Trust, and now hopes to extend this to shelter for the homeless too.

Krishnan is the only Indian in a list of 10 heroes that CNN has picked worldwide to honour. One of them will be chosen CNN Hero of the Year, selected by the public through an online poll. If many Indians get together to vote for this inspiring man, he can win by a long mile.

If Krishnan wins he will get $100,000 in addition to the $25,000 that he gets for being shortlisted for the Top 10. Akshaya Trust needs all the monetary support it can get to build on Krishnan's dream. Let's help him get there.
Vote for Krishnan here. http://edition.cnn.com/SPECIALS/cnn.heroes/index.html

The poll continues through 2010 November 18 at 6.00 a.m. ET.

R. Venugopal elected as Municipal Chairman of Thripunithura

R. Venugopal of Thripunithura accepted his office as Chairman of Thripunithura Municipality. He was elected from Kannankulangara Ward in the Thripunithura Municipality in the recently held elections to the local bodies. He was the opposition leader of Thripunithura Municipality for more than 25 years. Venugopal is son of Ramaswami Iyer and Gokulambal and married to Radhamony H. He is blessed with two children – Rajeev and Rekha, both students.

District Youth Wing office bearers elected at Kozhikode

The meeting of Youth Wing members of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Kozhikode District was held on Sunday, 7th November 2010 presided by T. S. Venkidadri, District President. The following were elected to the posts given in brackets; V. Krishnakumar (President), P. K. Harikumar (Vice President), G. Krishnan (Secretary), P. K. Rajesh (Joint Secretary), R. Ananthapadmanabhan (Treasurer).

V. Krishnakumar, District President

G. Krishnan, District Secretary

C. G. Kiran, representing State Committee of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Youth Wing welcomed the gathering. K. B. Sivanandan (District Secretary) highlighted the Youth Wing committee about the pivotal points listed in the Manual (guidelines) prepared for Youth Wing by the State body of Kerala Brahmana Sabha. T. V. Krishna Iyer (District Vice President) gave an inspiring talk on the role of Youth in the Brahmin Society. State Committee Member C. S. Gopalakrishnan briefed the statewide activities that Kerala Brahmana Sabha has undertaken, and how the youth can contribute towards the same. Newly elected President, V. Krishnakumar in his acceptance speech mentioned the need of unity of Youth in present social scenario. He added that the committee will work for the upliftment of the Brahmin community. G. Krishnan (Secretary) said the vote of thanks.

Top Exporter of Whole Spices Award for V. Ramalingam

V. Ramalingam, Managing Partner of G. R. K. & Company and State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha won the award for Top Exporter of Whole Spices 2009-2010 instituted by the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Kochi. The award was presented to V. Ramalingam by Madhavan Nayar, I. R. S., Chief Commissioner, Income Tax, Kochi.

Udayalekshmi S. wins in Fort Ward, Thiruvananthapuram

Udayalekshmi S., Organising Secretary of District Vanitha Vibhagam has elected to the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation representing Fort Ward in the recently held elections to the local bodies. Her husband is Sankar, a Central Government employee and has a son studying for graduation. Congratulations to Udaya in her glorious victory.

Local Body Elections - 2 Candidates Marks the Victory

K. Hari, of Perumbavoor Upasabha and Subhalakshmi of Thripunithura Upasabha wins in the elections to the local bodies held on 25th October 2010. Hari is elected to Perumbavoor Municipal Council and Subhalakshmi is to Thripunithura Municipal Council. V. Ramalingam, State President congratulated both of them and requested them to deliver their maximum for the welfare of the society. K. Hari is also Secretary of Perumbavoor Upasabha. Subhalakshmi is a music teacher who did her 'Ganabhushanam' from from R. L. V. College of Music, Thripunithura.

Vanitha Vibhagam and Youth Wing AGB at Palakkad

Vanitha Vibhagam

The Annual general Meeting of Vanitha Vibhagam was held on Sunday, the 3rd of October 2010 at at Sarada Sankara Kalyana Mandapam, Nurani, Palakkad. The meeting was presided by Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan, State President of Vanitha Vibhagam. P. Vijayambika, Retired Deputy Collector inaugurated the meeting. “Women are icons of prosperity and she is much powerful like God Hanuman. Women should recognize their untapped potential and come out to serve the society” P. Vijayambika said in her inaugural address. She was presented a memento by V. Ramalingam, State President.

The presidential address was assisted by a big screen presentation by Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan which described the activities, programmes, district wise analysis, mangalya nidhi, pension schemes etc. of Vanitha Vibhagam. The Annual Report and Annual Accounts were passed in the meeting afer discussions and clarifications. Annual Report was presented by Sreemathy Ramaswami, State General Secretary and Annual Accounts was presented by Meena Sankaranarayanan, State Treasurer.

Vanitha Vibhagam handed over an amount of Rupees 1 lakh as donation and 2 lakh as loan for the state building fund. V. Ramalingam received the cheques from Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan in the meeting.

Saraswathy Subramaniam (District President, Vanitha Vibhagam, Palakkad) welcomed the delegates and Sreemathy Ramaswami delivered the vote of thanks.

Youth Wing

The first State General Body of Youth Wing of Kerala Brahmana Sabha was held here at Palakkad on Saturday, the 3rd of October 2010 at 3.00 p. m. Youngsters between the age group of 18 to 35 participated in the meeting from different parts of the state. An ad-hoc committee was constituted in the meeting with Harinath D. from Ernakulam as General Convener, Arun, Venkitesh and Madhusoodanan as Zonal Conveners. N. R. Parameswaran (State Joint Secretary) introduced the members of the ad-hoc committee and V. Ramalingam (State President) described the guidelines for the functioning of Youth Wing. V. Ramalingam said that from the ancient days, Brahmin community was well known for the act of giving without expecting anything back. Followers of that tradition, every youth should build up a mind to serve the society. Youth Wing has to prepare blood donor's forum in Upsabha/Unit and District levels as early as possible as a beginning – he added. V. Navaneeth Krishnan (State Joint Secretary – Head Quarters) said the vote of thanks.

40th AGM held at Palakkad

40th Annual General Meeting of Kerala Brahmana Sabha was held at Sarada Sankara Kalyana Mandapam, Nurani, Palakkad on Sunday, the 3rd of October 2010. The venue woke up with Ashtadravya Ganapathy Homam in the morning at 5.00 a. m. The agrahara streets of Nurani village were flooded with delegates and members from all over Kerala. The procession lead by the state/district leaders entered N. P. Choodamani Iyer Nagar (Sarada Sankara Kalyana Mandapam) by 9.00 a. m. accompanied by the Band Set of Sarada School. Women from the host district Palakkad, wearing traditional ‘18 Muzham Pudavai’ gave a ceremonial welcome to the guests came from different parts of Kerala. V. Ramalingam, State President hoisted the flag marking the official beginning of the AGM. Kumari. Meenakshi and Party from Palakkad staged a beautiful welcome dance.

The inaugural meeting was presided over by V. Ramalingam. N. R. Krishnamoorthy (District President, Palakkad) welcomed the gathering and P. Ananthasubramaniam (State General Secretary) delivered the vote of thanks. Industrialist and Managing Trustee of Pallatheri Veda Samrakshana Trust, S. N. Varadarajan inaugurated the meeting. In his inaugural address he said that every Brahmin should understand the immense power of Gayathri Manthra. He also emphasized the necessity to safe guarded the Vedas in this present age. He was presented a memento by V. Ramalingam on the occasion.

The Annual Report and Annual Accounts were read and passed in the business meet. Annual Report was presented by P. Ananthasubramaniam, State General Secretary and the Annual Accounts was presented by K. G. V. Pathy, State Treasurer. The business meet was creative and the delegates from different Upasabhas raised very genuine issues. The interference of the Government in the day-to-day affairs of our Samooha Madoms and other institutions controlled by Agraharams and our religious institutions are viewed very seriously – said V. Ramalingam, State President. The Brahmin candidates who contest in the local body elections must be given full support, he added. The State General Meeting demanded state government the following. 1. To consider tamil Brahmins as a separate group in the proposed caste wise census. 2. Sanction sufficient fund for the renovation of Kalpathy Agraharam. 3. Restore the holiday declared previously for Upakarma of Brahmins. 4. Declare holidays on 15th and 16th since Mahanavami falls on these two days as per astrology.

The closing ceremony was inaugurated by K. K. Divakaran, M. L. A. Honourable Justice M. N. Krishnan was Chief Guest in the meeting presided over by V. Ramalingam. K. K. Divakaran said that the Brahmins should strictly stick on to their culture and rituals, thus unite the society proclaiming the message “Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavanthu”. The heritage that Brahmin community hold is precious by all means – said K. K. Divakaran in his speech. He assured that he will do his level best for the uplift of Brahmin community.

Prominent personalities and Academic achievers were honoured in the meeting by presenting Certificates, Mementos and Shall. Cash awards for the winners in the cultural competitions were also distributed in the meeting by Honourable Justice M. N. Krishnan.

Sivaramakrishnan (District Secretary, Palakkad), P. Ananthasubramaniam (State General Secretary), Kesava Dev Puthumana (State Committee Member, Yoga Kshema Sabha), N. N. Ramachandran (Palakkad) addressed the audience.

State level Cultural competitions held at Palakkad

To sustain the brahmanic culture among youth, the state committee of Kerala Brahmana Sabha conducted a state level competition for the children between the age group of 8 to 15 at Sarada Sankara Kalyana Mandapam, Nurani, Palakkad on Saturday, the 2nd of October 2010. The winners from various districts participated in the day long competitions with great enthusiasm. Earlier in the morning, Guinness Book of World Records fame Mridanga Vidwan Kuzhalmandam Ramakrishnan lighted the Bhadradeepam marking the beginning of the Competitions. V. Ramalingam, State President presided over the inaugural meeting. “The efforts put by the organization to propagate our traditions and culture has to be highly appreciated and in my childhood days, we hadn’t an opportunity like this” – said Ramakrishnan. Pushpa (Secretary, Vanitha Vibhagam, Palakkad District) delivered the welcome speech and P. Ananthasubramaniam (State General Secretary) said the vote of thanks.

Slokam Chanting, Manthra Chanting, Kolamidal, Bhajana and Role Play competitions were held, which had prize money of more than rupees one and half lakhs. V. Ramalingam appreciated event co-ordinator Balu Narayanan, State Joint Secretary for the smooth conduct of the programmes. The results were announced on the same day and the cash prize with certificates for the winners were distributed by Honourable Justice M. N. Krishnan in the closing ceremony of the state general body held in the same venue on Sunday, the 3rd of October 2010. The following are the winners.

1. SLOKAM CHANTING (Individual)
Boys Group A (Age: from 8 upto 11 years)
1st – VENGADHANATHAN (ERNAKULAM)
2nd – NAVANEETH H. (KOLLAM)
3rd – S. VENKITESH (ALAPUZHA)

Girls Group A (Age: from 8 upto 11 years)
1st – B. BHAGYASHREE (THRISSUR)
2nd – SREEPA S. (PALAKKAD)
3rd – MANASSA J. (THIRUVANANTHAPURAM)

Boys Group B (Age: from 11 upto 15 years)
1st – T. R. ABHISHEK (THRISSUR)
2nd – AKSHAYKUMAR P. A. (PALAKKAD)
3rd – ARUN VARADARAJAN (ERNAKULAM)

Girls Group B (Age: from 11 upto 15 years)
1st – PAVITHRA C. V. (ERNAKULAM)
2nd – SANJANA MEENAKSHI (PALAKKAD)
3rd – AISWARYA P. R. (ALAPUZHA)

2. MANTHRAM CHANTING (Individual)
Boys Group A (Age: from 8 upto 11 years)
1st – V. N. R. SUBRAMANIAM (ERNAKULAM)
2nd – NAVANEETH H. (KOLLAM)
3rd – SUBRAMANIAM N. H. (PALAKKAD), ASUTHOSH VENKITESWARAN (THRISSUR), S. VENKITESH (ALAPUZHA)

Boys Group B (Age: from 11 upto 15 years)
1st – V. RAMAKRISHNAN (ERNAKULAM)
2nd – AKSHAYKUMAR P. A. (PALAKKAD)

3. KOLAMIDAL (Individual)
Girls Group A (Age: from 8 upto 11 years)
1st – AISWARYA P. S. (PALAKKAD)
2nd – SWATHI R. (ERNAKULAM)
3rd – K. DHANALAKSHMI (THRISSUR)

Girls Group B (Age: from 11 upto 15 years)
1st – APARNA P. R. (ALAPUZHA)
2nd – PAVITHRA C. V. (ERNAKULAM)
3rd – SREEJA M. KRISHNAN (PALAKKAD)

4. BHAJANA (Group)
Group A (Age: from 8 upto 11 years)
1st – CHAITHANYA & PARTY (KOLLAM)
2nd – SWATHI VISWANATH & PARTY (ERNAKULAM)
3rd – G. SREEGAYATHRI & PARTY (PALAKKAD)

Group B (Age: from 11 upto 15 years)
1st – K. M. SUBRAMANIAM & PARTY (ERNAKULAM), G. SREELAKSHMI & PARTY (PALAKKAD)
2nd – GAYATHRI V. V. & PARTY (THRISSUR)

5. ROLE PLAY (Group)
1st – VISHNU S. R. & PARTY (THIRUVANANTHAPURAM)
2nd – SWATHI & PARTY (ERNAKULAM)
3rd – T. M. KEERTHANA & PARTY (THRISSUR)

40th State Meeting on 3rd October 2010 at Palakkad

The 40th State Annual General Body of Kerala Brahmana Sabha will be held on Sunday, the 3rd October 2010 at Sree Sarada Sankara Kalyana Mandapam, Nurani at Palakkad. V. Ramalingam, State President will hoist the official flag at 9.30 a. m. marking the beginning of the 40th State Meeting. More than 1000 delegates from different districts of Kerala will attend the meeting.

The State Meeting of Vanitha Vibhagam is scheduled at 1.00 p. m. in the same venue. Youth Wing Convention will be held at 2.00 p.m. in which a State Committee will be constituted for the first time in the history of Kerala Brahmana Sabha.

Multifarious personalities from different walks of life will grace the public meeting at 3.00 p. m. The community members who have achieved remarkable positions in their academics as well as professions will be honoured in the meeting.

To sustain and propagate the Brahmanic Culture among the youngsters in the age group of 8 to 15, different competitions are organized on Saturday, the 2nd of October 2010. Kolamidal, Slokam Chanting, Manthra Chanting, Bhajana and Role Play are the competitions to be held. “Prize money of Rs. 1.5 lakh rupees is awaiting the winners” – said V. Ramalingam, State President and P. Ananthasubramaniam, State General Secretary in the press release.

Ernakulam District to launch its Youth Wing on 26th September 2010

The launch of Youth Wing of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Ernakulam District will be held at Samooham Kalyana Mandapam (Mukundan Nagar), Perumbavoor on 26th September 2010 at 10.00 a. m. Honourable Justice V. R. Krishna Iyer, Former Judge of Supreme Court of India will be the Chief Guest and V. Ramalingam, State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha will inaugurate the District Youth Wing. P. R. Kalyanaraman, Executive Director of Federal Bank Limited and Prof. T. K. Kaveri will deliver their speech in the meeting which is to be presided by V. Krishnaswami, District President. The recipient of Sree Sankara Talent Award for young musicians by Sree Sankara Assessment and Accreditation Council, C. Y. Gangadharan of Perumbavoor will be honoured in the meeting.

The Convention will be attended by the youngsters from all the Upasabhas of Ernakulam District between the age of 18 to 35 and the meeting is hosted by Perumbavoor Upasabha on behalf of Ernakulam District. The State Committee has decided to build up a Youth Wing, realizing the fact that they can play a crucial role in sustaining the Brahmanic culture and values in future. The various Upasabhas in the District are busy with formation of Youth Wing for last few weeks.

Annapoorni Donates Rs. 1,00,000/- as Endowment Fund



V. Ramalingam receiving the Endowment Fund from Annapoorni

An amount of Rupees One Lakh is donated by Annapoorni, w/o S. Ramamoorthy, Lalan Road, Mattancherry, Kochi to Brahmin Welfare Association, Mattancherry. This Endowment Fund will be utilized to help the poor and needy students for their education. V. Ramalingam, State President and Upasabha President of Mattancherry Unit received the Fund on behalf of BWA, Mattancherry.

S. Mukundan passes away

The President of Koovappady Brahmana Samooham, S. Mukundan (Retired Manager, Union Bank) passed away at a private hospital at Kochi today early morning. He was 67 and was suffering from illness since last week. His funeral was held at today at Edappalli. Mukundan was leading his retired life at Sunny Palace, West Side of Ganapathy Temple, Edappalli for last few years. He has served the community as the President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Perumbavoor Upasabha and District Organising Secretary (Ernakulam) of Kerala Brahmana Sabha. Mukundan was the State President of Union Bank Officers Association for a long time. Wife-Jayalakshmi, Children-Sowmya & Remya.

Annual General Body of Kottayam District conducted

The Annual General Body of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Kottayam District was conducted in a grand manner at Thiruvarppu Brahmana Samooham on Sunday, the 18th July, 2010 under the chairmanship of H. Ramanathan, Dist President. P. S. Raman, State Vice President, N. R. Parameswaran, Central Zone Secretary, K.Venkitachalam, Secretary, G. Subhash, District Tresurer, S. S. Ayyar, Former State President, V. A. Krishnamoor thy, President, Thiruvarppu Upasabha, M. V. Janaky Ammal, President, District Vanitha Vibhagam, Jalaja Narayanan, District Secretary, Vanitha Vibhagam were present in the meeting. Educational awards to various children of members were also distributed. More than 100 members were present in the meeting.

(Report: Jalaja Narayanan)

Thripunithura Upasabha’s Building Complex Inaugurated

The newly constructed building complex of Thripunithura Upasabha was inaugurated by K. Babu, M. L. A. on Sunday, the 25th of July 2010 in a fabulous function organized by the Upasabha of Thripunithura. V. Ramalingam, State President of KBS hoisted the flag of Sabha in the morning, marking the beginning of a day long celebrations. Krishna Vadhyar of Madappally Samooham lighted the Nilavilakku to start the inaugural meeting held in the morning. K. Babu said in his inaugural address that the building complex is an example for the able leadership and organizational strength of the Brahmin community.

The beautifully furnished air-conditioned hall in the second floor named ‘Shivapoorna’ was inaugurated by Honourable Justice M. N. Krishnan. “The Brahmin community should not wait for any reservation policies of Government; instead they should prove themselves with their talent and hard work with commitment to the society and community” he said.

Former Judge of the High Court of Kerala, Justice P. R. Raman inaugurated the ‘Vedhapuri’ hall in the third floor of the building. Addressing the gathering, he said the timely completion of the building complex reflects the strong will of the Sabha and its volunteers to attain the goal.

A Brahmin can excel in life only by following the culture and tradition of community – said V. Ramalingam, State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha in his speech. P. Ananthasubramaniam, State General Secretary in his address said that the committee of Kerala Brahmana Sabha is grateful to the members and office bearers of Thripunithura Upasabha for accepting the deal to purchase the first floor of the building for the State Committee for its administrative office.

P. S. Raman, President of Thripunithura Upasabha presided the meeting. In his presidential address he mentioned Seethalakshmi-Rama Iyer who donated the land to Sabha. Renjini Suresh (Chairperson, Thripunithura Municipality), R. Venugopal (Opposition leader, Thripunithura Municipality, Venugopal Radhakrishnan (Councillor, Thripunithura Municipality), N. R. Parameswaran (Secretary, Central Zone, Kerala Brahmana Sabha), V. Krishnaswami (President, Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Ernakulam District), Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan (President, Vanitha Vibhagam, Kerala Brahmana Sabha) and Thangam Ramakrishnan (Secretary, Vanitha Vibhagam, Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Ernakulam District) were also present on the occasion. Skilled workers who lead the building construction were presented mementoes on the occasion.

Followed by the inaugural meeting, the office of the Upasabha was opened by V. Ramalingam, the office of the Vanitha Vibhagam was opened by Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan and the sales counter of ‘Mamees Products’ was opened by V. Krishnaswami.

S. Ramakrishnan, Executive Committee Member of Thripunithura Upasabha welcomed the gathering and R. Hariharan delivered the vote of thanks. A ‘Grihapravesa Sadya’ was also arranged for the guests after the meeting.

Discourse by Thiruvananthapuram P. Ramachandran, organized in connection with the inauguration of building complex was listened by many in the evening, followed by Namasankeerthanam by Thripunithura P. S. Ramachandran and Party.

Bharath Suresh Gopi who had agreed to inaugurate the building complex could not attend because of his health problems and he felicitated the audience over phone during the meeting.

State Annual General Body at Palakkad

The state annual general body of Kerala Brahmana Sabha is scheduled to be conducted at Palakkad on Sunday, 3rd of October 2010. The decision was taken in the state committee held at Alapuzha last week.

Bharath Suresh Gopi to inaugurate Thripunithura Upasabha Building Complex

The inauguration of the four-storied building complex of Thripunithura Upasabha is proposed to be held on Sunday, the 25th of July 2010 at 10.30 a. m. Superstar Bharath Suresh Gopi will inaugurate the building. The meeting will be presided by P. S. Raman, President of Thripunithura Upasabha. Honourable Justice M. N. Krishnan (High Court of Kerala) will inaugurate the Air Conditioned Hall and Honourable Justice P. R. Raman (Former Judge, High Court of Kerala) will inaugurate the Conference Hall. K. Babu (M. L. A.), Adv. Ranjini Suresh (Chairperson, Thripunithura Municipality), V. Ramalingam (State President, Kerala Brahmana Sabha), Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan (State President, Vanitha Vibhagam, Kerala Brahmana Sabha), Venugopalan Radhakrishnan (Municipal Councillor), R. Venugopal (Municipal Councillor) and V. Krishnaswami (District President, Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Ernakualm) will felicitate the inaugural function.

Thripunithura - the name originated from 'Poorna Veda Puri' (the town of Vedas) - is one of the most prominent centers of traditional cultural heritage. The building is located behind Sidhivinayaka Temple at Chakkamkulangara. The ground floor is having office/shop rooms; the first floor – the proposed administrative office of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, State Committee; the second floor – the air conditioned hall and the roof top equipped with a spacious dining area with wash and toilets. A lift and generator facility for 24 hours is also provided here. The secretary of Thripunithura Upasabha, R. Venugopal invited all Sabha members to attend the inaugural function.

Laksharchana at Sabarimala organised by Kottayam Town Unit

Laksharchana was held at the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple on Sunday, 16th May 2010 - Akshayathritheeya Day - under the auspices of Sankaranarayana Iyer and Thazhaman Thantri Kandararu Maheswararu. The Laksharchana was organized by the Kottayam Town Unit of Kerala Brahmana Sabha. The poojas commenced with Lalithasahasranama Archana at the shrine of Malikappurathamma followed by Laksharchana at Ayyappa Sannidhanam. The Nilavilakku was lighted by Melsanthi - Brahmasree Vishnu Namboothiri. Thantri Kandararu Maheswararu performed the Kalasapooja followed by Kalasabhishekam on the idol of Lord Ayyappa. Udayasthamanapooja, Pushpabhishekam and Padipooja were the other rituals held on the day. Also Samaradhana was held after the poojas.

The pilgrim trip for the Laksarchana started from Brahmana Samooha Madom, Kottayam on 15th morning. 75 members from various Upasabhas in Kerala participated in this event which was convened by H. Ramanathan, District President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Kottayam and G. Subhash, District Treasurer. State leaders of Kerala Brahmana Sabha including former State Presidents V. Venkitarama Iyer and S. S. Iyer, Balu Narayanan, State Joint Secretary – Head Quarters, S. Sankar, State Committee Member, and M. S. Narayanan participated in this Laksharchana organised by Kottayam Town Unit for the 4th time in consecutive years.

(delayed report)

Meenakshi Lekshmanan bags 1st Rank

Meenakshi Lekshmanan, daughter of Lekshmanan V. (Swamy Time Centre) & Prema Lekshmanan of Maloor Gramam, Thiruvananthapuram secured first rank in B.Sc. (Industrial Microbiology & Bio Chemistry) from Kerala University. She did her graduation at Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram. Meenakshi is grand daughter of Late. Viswanatha Iyer (S.R. Swamy & Co) and Meenakshi Ammal; Sankaranarayana Iyer (Valiyasalai) and Gomathy Ammal and Great Grand daughter of Late. K. Narayana Iyer and Anandambal, Kulangara Madom, Broadway, Perumbavoor. She is also niece to N. Ranganathan, State Committee Member and N. Ramachandran, Vice President, Ernakulam District of Kerala Brahmana Sabha. State Vice President S. Anantharama Iyer visited her house and congratulated on behalf of Kerala Brahmana Sabha on 08th of July 2010.

Dharmasreshta Award presented to Dr. M. Sambasivan

The Dharmasreshta Award for the year 2010, instituted by Kerala Brahmana Sabha was presented to Dr. M. Sambasivan by Padmasree Dr. V. R. Gourishankar (C.E.O and Administrator of Sri Sringeri Mutt and its properties) on Sunday, 16th of May 2010 at Sree Sankaracharya Janmabhoomi Kshethram premises by 6.30 p.m. in the divine presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Sankaracharya Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswanigal. The meeting was presided by V. Ramalingam, State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha. V. Krishnaswami (President, Ernakulam District) welcomed the gathering and P. Ananthasubramaniam (State General Secretary) delivered vote of thanks. In his key note address, Padmasree V. R. Gourishankar said that Dr. Sambasivan is so lucky to receive the Dharmasreshta Award in the presence of Jagadguru Sri Sankaracharya Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswanigal, especially on the occasion of centenary celebrations held here at Kalady. V. R. Gourishankar honoured Dr. Sambasivan by draping a ‘Ponnadai’. H. Ganesh (President, Thiruvananthapuram District) introduced Dr. M. Sambasivan, the receipient of Dharmasreshta Award to the people gathered and the 'Mangalapathram' was read by Prof. K. S. Narayanan. Padmasree Dr. V. R. Gourishankar was presented a memento and draped with a ‘Ponnadai’ by V. Ramalingam on the occasion.

“The purpose of incarnation of Adi Sankara Bhagavathpadar was to establish and propagate the Sanathana Dharma and Advaitha Sidhantha among common people. That is the reason why the Dharma, Karma, Veda and Sasthra are safeguarded in the present age. It is great that Kerala Brahmana Sabha has instituted such an Award to recognize the outstanding personalities among the community and I consider Dr. Sambasiva Iyer as the most deserving to receive the Award. My blessings to Kerala Brahmana Sabha and I appreciate the efforts taken by the officials for the well being of the community” His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Sankaracharya Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswanigal said in his 'Anugraha Prabhashanam'.

Dharmasreshta Award to be presented on 16th May 2010

His Holiness Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha arrives at Kalady

The Jagadguru Shankaracharya, Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswamiji arrived Kalady on Friday, the 7th of May 2010 at 6:00 p.m. for the Sankara Jayanthi and the Centenary Celebrations. As the State Guest of Honour, Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha was received by Jose Thettayil, Minister for Transport and Ramachandran Kadannappilly, Minister for Devaswom along with the Maharaja of Travancore, Uthradam Thirunal Marthanda Varma.


In a grand procession from the Kalady junction to the Sri Sringeri Sankara Mutt, the Jagadguru was welcomed by the devotees and the people of Kalady. Three elephants in traditional Kerala style, along with seven horses, Panchavadyam and Veda Ghosham by the students of the Veda Paadhasala at Kalady added colours to the procession. State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha and the Vice Chairman of the Reception Committee, V. Ramalingam, N. Ramachandran, District Vice President along with volunteers of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, accompanied the procession. The members of Vanitha Vibhagam also participated wearing 9 Gajam Pudavai - the traditional dress of tamil brahmin ladies.

His Holiness Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha in his discourse said that until hundred and twenty years back, no one knew about the location of the birth place of Adi Sankara. It was because of the Divine guidance and efforts of the Thirty Third Acharya of the Sringeri Sarada Peetham, Jagadguru Sankaracharya Sri Sacchidananda Sivabhinava Narasimha Bharathi Mahaswamiji Kalady was traced. The Jagadguru also stressed the importance of Kalady as a pilgrimage centre like Kasi, Rameswaram, Ayodhya or Mathura; it is the duty of every ‘Astika’ to visit Kalady atleast once in his life time.

Centenary Celebrations at Kalady

The Centenary Celebrations are scheduled to be held during the forthcoming Sri Sankara Jayanthi (18th May 2010) in the imposing, auspicious and divine presence of Jagadguru Sankaracharya, Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswamigal at Sri Sringeri Mutt at Kalady.

14th - 18th May

Sri Sankara Jayanthi Celebrations

19th May

Laksha Modaka Ganapathy Homam

20th - 31st May

Athi Rudra Maha Yagam

21st - 23rd May

Kumbhabhishekam Celebrations of Godess Saradamba & Sri Adi Sankara Temple

23rd May

Kumbhabhishekam by His Holiness Jagadguru Sankaracharya,

Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswamigal of Godess Saradamba & Sri Adi Sankara Temple

24th - 28th May

Satha Chandi Maha Yagam

His Holiness Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswamigal arrives on the evening of 7th May 2010 and Padmasree V. R. Gourishankar, CEO and Administrator of Sri Sringeri Mutt and its properties requests the presence of all at Sri Sringeri Mutt by 4.00 p.m.

State Administrative Building at Thripunithura – Agreement Signed

On behalf of the Kerala Brahmna Sabha, State Committee, V. Ramalingam, State President and representing Thripunithura Upasabha, P. S. Raman, President signed the agreement for the purchase of the proposed Administrative Building at Thripunithura on Sunday, 25th April 2010. This was held in the function organised in connection with the Student Training and Seminar – Punarjani at Hotel Renaissance Blue Waters, Cherai. The decision to purchase the administrative office was taken in the State Committee Meeting held at Thripunithura on Sunday, the 21st of March, 2010. The proposed 153 square meter office is in the 1st floor of Thripunithura Upasabha's three storied building which is nearing completion.

V. Ramalingam inaugurated Student Training & Seminar – Punarjani at Cherai, Kochi

The Student Training & Seminar – Punarjani – organized by the District Committee of Kerala Brahmana Sabha was held at Hotel Renaissance, Cherai, Kochi on Sunday, 25th April 2010. The programme had a remarkable participation from the students in the age group of 15 to 22. V. Ramalingam, State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha inaugurated the programme at 9.45 a.m. by lighting up the ‘Nilavilakku’ in the presence of V. Krishnaswami (District President, Ernakulam), P. S. Raman (State Vice President and Central Zone President), P. Ananthasubramaniam (State General Secretary), Balu Narayanan, Navaneetha Krishnan (both State Head Quarters Joint Secretaries), P. Veeraraghavan (State Committee Member), N. Ramachandran, K. R. Chandran (both Vice Presidents, Ernakulam), R. Ramakrishnan (District Secretary, Ernakulam), Ganesh Venkitachlam A. G. (Treasurer, Ernakulam), Mohandas S., R. Hariharaputhran (both Joint Secretaries, Ernakulam District), Naganathan S. (Organising Secretary, Ernakulam) and M. Vanchiswaran (Secretary, Ernakulam City Unit).

V. Ramalingam and P. Veeraraghavan addressed the students in few words and requested the youngsters to utilize these kinds of programmes to the maximum. The sessions were handled by eminent faculties like Dr. P. R. Venkitaraman, Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan, Dr. T. K. Raman and G. Mony.

Ernakulam District collected Rs.156008 as Vishukkaneettam

The Vishukkaineettam - The Working Fund collected by the volunteers from 11 Upasabhas – was handed over to State Committee on Sunday, 25th April 2010 at Cherai. A cheque for Rupees 156008/- was handed over to P. S. Raman, Central Zone President by V. Krishnaswami, District President in a function held in connection with the Student Training & Seminar – Punarjani – at Hotel Renaissance Blue Waters. The cheque was then received by V. Ramalingam, State President from P. S. Raman.

Padmashree V. R. Gourishankar to present Dharmasreshta Award

The 5th Dharmasreshta Award instituted by Kerala Brahmana Sabha will be presented to Dr. M. Sambasivan by Padmashree V. R. Gourishankar in the presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Sankaracharya Sri Sri Bharathi Theertha Mahaswamigal of Sringeri Mutt on Sunday, 16th of May 2010 at Kalady. V. Ramalingam, State President and P. Ananthasubramaniam, State General Secretary requests the presense of all members of Kerala Brahmana Sabha to participate in the function which is to be held in Sri Sringeri Mutt at Kalady. The award carries a cash prize of Rs.10,001, a citation and a statuette.

Dr. M. Sambasivan is a phenomenon through out his life. He is a well known Neuro Surgeon who is M. S. in general surgery and also M. S. in Neuro surgery. He is Honorary Surgeon to the President of India and also Nuero Consultant for the Indian armed forces. He is the Chairman, President or Patron of more than 50 trusts and organizations. Also he was Vice Principal and Director of Department of Neuro Surgery in Medical College of Thiruvananthapuram. He has also held the post of State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha. Dr. M. Sambasivan is a Vedic scholar and Thantri for more than a dozen temples including Karamana and Sreekandeswaram Temples and has also performed the consecration of many temples. He has to his credit many awards and appreciations for professional achievements, cultural and spiritual contributions.

Tremendous Response from Upasabhas for ‘Vishukkaineettam’

'Vishukkaineettam Brahmana Sabhakku' - the working fund mobilising programme of Kerala Brahmana Sabha was accepted by the members with great enthusiasm. The volunteers visited and accepted Vishukkaineettam from the elders of the house. "Every Upasabhas took initiative in this state wide fund collection drive and was successful by all means" - said V. Ramalingam, State President.

V. Ramalingam, State President receiving Vishukkaineettam at Mattancherry Unit

P. Ananthasubramaniam, State General Secretary receiving Vishukkaineettam at Edappally Unit

Senior Citizens Home – Kasturi – Inauguration on April 11th 2010

A social welfare project of Kerala Brahmana Sabha, Thrissur Town Unit – Kasturi – will be inaugurated on Sunday, April 11th 2010. Honourable Justice M. N. Krishnan will inaugurate the senior citizens home located in the heart of the town. This 1.5 Crore project is completed in a 30 cents of land donated by the family members of Diwan Peishkar T. V. Kasturi Ranga Iyer.

The Muhurtham for Grihapravesam is between 8.30 and 9.30 a.m. and the formal inauguration ceremony will be at 3.30 p. m. The inaugural function will be presided by V. Ramalingam, State President of Kerala Brahmana Sabha. K. P. Rajendran, Honourable Minister for Revenue will hand over the keys and Mayor of Thrissur Prof. R. Bindu will be the chief guest of the day. T. G. Kasthurirangan (Grandson of Diwan Peishkar T. V. Kasthuri Ranga Iyer), Therambil Ramakrishnan (MLA), N. Prasad (Municipal Counsillor) and P. Ananthasubramaniam (State General Secretary, Kerala Brahmana Sabha) will bless the function with their presence.